Art Therapy

Art therapy is the creative use of art materials and art experiences in the treatment and evaluation of emotionally and physically challenged people. Art work created under such circumstances is a visual means of communication and self expression which can be of diagnostic and therapeutic value to the art therapist, and to other staff members when used in conjunction with other forms of therapy. It can aid the client in making better contact with reality, as well as help to raise the client's self esteem. It can help lead to a resolution of the client's psychological and emotional needs and conflicts.

The art therapist can work with an ever increasing variety of client populations including children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics on an individual or group basis. Typical employment settings include hospitals, community health centers, residential treatment homes, halfway houses, prisons, and developmental centers.

Program Features

One of the few undergraduate and graduate art therapy programs in the Midwest.

Small classes allow personal attention from professors.

Art professors are artists themselves.

Opportunities for experience through off-campus internships.

Holden Fine and Applied Arts Center is home to the Visual Arts Department. The building includes two art galleries and studios for painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, printmaking, drawing, woodworking, metal work, weaving, and expressive ecopsychology.